Reports: Manchester City Close to Signing Juventus Star

Reports have emerged that Manchester City have made significant progress in efforts to sign Juventus right back Joao Cancelo this summer. With Danilo set to leave the Etihad Stadium, the Portuguese is the preferred man to give competition in the position to Kyle Walker. Several media outlets have reported that the two clubs are close to agreeing a fee for the player. The Italian side is holding out for a €60 million fee for the player.

Although City are unwilling to match that fee, a deal could be agreed for around €50 million plus bonuses. If the two clubs reach an agreement anytime soon, the Portugal international could become City’s first signing of the transfer window.

The 25-year-old made 25 appearances for the Bianconeri last season. He scored once and provided three assists as he helped the side win the Serie A title (Scudetto). Together with international teammate Bernardo Silva, he also won the inaugural edition of the UEFA Nations League with Portugal. Good on the ball with an eye for a pass while excelling in his defensive duties, Cancelo will fit right in with Pep Guardiola’s possession-based system. He also comes imbued with a winning mentality that will make him a good addition to the squad.

Kyle walker suffered a deep in form in the middle of last season, but with the addition of a top talent like Cancelo, the manager will have nothing to worry about should such a situation occur again. The duo could also be used interchangeably for depth and freshness. Adding other targets like Rodri from Atletico Madrid and a new center-back to the team in the course of the transfer window will put the Sky Blues in good stead to make a strong push for continental silverware next term.